DS Touch Screen Innovation

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Sources indicate some great things for the secondary screen in Nintendo's handheld.

By Craig Harris

As we get closer to the official unveiling of the Nintendo DS, Nintendo's dual-screen handheld scheduled for release by the end of this year, details on the system's touch screen bring to light some exciting gameplay opportunities not yet utilized in the mainstream console market.

Sources familiar with the system tell us that the innovation of the Nintendo DS comes from a touch sensitive screen, similar to what's already available in the Palm and Pocket PC market. Picture a classic Game Boy Advance system -- the touch screen will be positioned between the D-pad and action buttons for easy access. Hinged above it will be the second, but more primary screen of the system.

By pressing and dragging a stylus or finger on the screen, players will have more direct control over certain games than a control pad or action buttons can provide. Directing troops in a real-time strategy game, for example, with the screen above zoomed in for a closer 3D view of the action is an idea that is certainly doable on the Nintendo DS. Or, in a golf game, players can use the touch screen like a mouse control on the PC; drag a finger quickly forward on the lower screen to provide the power and accuracy of the swing. Another gameplay example: a Marble Madness or Super Monkey Ball design with the touch screen acting as the trackball as players maneuver the ball around the different hazards on the upper screen.

Nintendo plans to reveal all about the Nintendo DS at its E3 press conference on May 11. We'll know more specifics as the date approaches.